Ergin Ataman advocates for EuroLeague expansion and increased competition, proposing more teams and double-round weeks to enhance the league's appeal and revenue potential.
Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens are preparing for the final regular-season battle against Crvena Zvezda, a team facing uncertainty in its long-term EuroLeague future. Despite this, PAO coach Ergin Ataman is optimistic about the prospects for both Serbian clubs remaining in the league next season.
Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens / Schedule
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Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens
Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet BelgradeWhen asked if he would like to see both Serbian teams in the EuroLeague next year, Ataman provided a thoughtful response, advocating for expansion and the potential for more double-round weeks in the season.
"I believe that all of the teams that have participated this season deserve to play in the EuroLeague next season," Ataman told reporters. "It was a great season, one of the best regular seasons in the EuroLeague, with big competition. Of course, there will be some other teams that might join. The people are scared of having more teams in the EuroLeague to play more games.
"I think that now we must be ready to play more games, even if you play 20, 22, or 24 teams," he continued. "We can play more double weeks as well. Why do we play only 7, 8, or 9? We can play 12-13 double-round weeks, like in the NBA. In the NBA, the teams play 5 games in a week. The owners pay the money. Every year, the salary is increased, so they don't pay this money because they have 5 days of practice per week over there.
"With more games, people will enjoy more teams, and there will be more TV money to take. I think we must be ready for this. I don't care, we can play 3 games in a week: two games in the EuroLeague and one game in the local league.
"I think that this is very important for the future of the EuroLeague. If the EuroLeague wants to be like the NBA, follow their game. They play 5 games in a week. Why do they play 5 games in a week? When you play a game, you take money. When you make practice, no money," Ataman smiled.
The EuroLeague is considering expanding to 20 teams for the next season and is looking into multi-year contracts for Crvena Zvezda and Partizan, which would involve substantial annual fees without offering ownership stakes.
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